I really think you would be GREATLY disappointed with the MegaQuilter (if it's the 9" harp one), UNLESS... all you're planning on doing with it is smaller quilts (twin or smaller). If you want to be able to do full/queen/king quilts, the MegaQuilter (9) just will NOT be able to handle that in a single "load". The only way to do the larger quilts on the smaller machines is to quilt halfway, then take the quilt off the frame, reload it from the other end and go from there.
Now... another option...
I got my machine from SewingMachinesPlus. Mine is the MegaQuilter 18x8 (essentially a Tin Lizzie). SMP has financing, and often has unadvertised specials, you just have to ask about them.
If you feel like you HAVE to have something RIGHT NOW, and you're really in love with the HQ16, get that one. Seriously, $1000 for the MegaQuilter (9) is going to be something you will regret. There's one on eBay right now, priced at $450, and there's not a SINGLE bid on it. That should tell you something.
Good luck with your decision.